The Singapore Airshow has commenced with various aerial displays, including the debut appearance of China's C919 narrow-body airliner.
Following the smaller, curtailed shows in 2020 and 2022 during the COVID-19 upheaval, the Singapore Airshow returned on Tuesday, opening its doors to the public and showcasing an assortment of aviation displays, according to the Associated Press.
1,000 Exhibitors Take Part in the Singapore Airshow
The event marks a milestone for the aviation industry in the region, signifying a tentative recovery following the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Subhas Menon, director general of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines, cited the presence of over 1,000 exhibitors at the show, highlighting its significance as a platform for industry stakeholders to demonstrate technological innovations.
Despite the resurgence in passenger demand across the Asia Pacific region, the aviation industry continues facing supply chain disruptions, including aircraft parts and personnel shortages.
Menon told AP about the impact of these challenges on capacity growth, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to address underlying issues affecting the industry's recovery.
China's COMAC C919 Makes its International Debut
During the airshow, China's Tibet Airlines finalized a significant order for C919 passenger jets and ARJ21 regional jets from the Commercial Aircraft Company of China (COMAC).
The deal underscores COMAC's ambition to establish itself as a prominent player in the single-aisle jet market, offering an alternative to established manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus.
The C919, a narrow-body airliner designed by COMAC, also debuted at the Singapore Airshow, marking its first appearance outside Chinese territory. The aircraft's presence at the event reflects COMAC's efforts to expand its global footprint and gain traction in international markets.
In addition to the C919, the airshow featured a lineup of flying displays, including performances by Singapore's Air Force, the Indian Air Force's Sarang helicopter team, and aerial acrobatics by the Indonesian and Australian air forces.
The show culminated in a display by the South Korean Air Force's Black Eagles, showcasing their precision and skill in executing maneuvers.
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Singapore Airshow's Extensive Lineup
"This year's lineup is extensive, with 90% of the top 20 global aviation companies in attendance, including well-known exhibitors like Airbus, AVIC, BAE Systems, Boeing, Bombardier, COMAC, Dassault, GE Aerospace, General Dynamics, Honeywell, L3Harris, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Rolls-Royce, RTX, Safran, ST Engineering, Textron Aviation, and Thales; making the event a truly global gathering," the Singapore Airshow wrote in its press release.
"Moreover, there will be 16 country pavilions of which China, the Czech Republic and Korea be first-time country pavilions," it added.
The event is being held from February 20 to 25, with 1,000 participating companies from over 50 countries and regions.
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